GTA 6 Sparks 17% Surge in Employee Time-Off Requests
Put in for that PTO yet? According to a report detailed by IGN, the release of Grand Theft Auto VI is already impacting the workforce.
Human resources software company BambooHR found time-off requests for November 19 are up between 9% and 17% compared to a typical third Thursday in November. While not every request is confirmed to be for gaming, the outlet suggests the bulk are likely tied to the game's launch.
The report also cites economists estimating a potential $1 billion loss in U.S. productivity due to the release.
Rockstar Games has backed the launch with a massive marketing blitz. This includes a $975,000 neon sign atop the Miami Heat's arena and covering the city with in-game advertisements. Fans in Miami can even visit a real-life pop-up of the game's Burger Shot restaurant chain.
The promotion extends to the NBA, with the Miami Heat slated to become the 'Vice City Heat' for a game on November 18. The team will wear GTA 6-themed jerseys and play on a special Vice City-themed court.
Grand Theft Auto VI launches for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on November 19, with PC port rumors pointing to early 2027.
